News

07

Sep2017

Some additional support events for our foster carers have been added to our calendar:
Parent and Child support group Bristol on 13th September
Andrew Lister Consultation and Workshop in Bristol on 27th September
Four our full calendar of events and support activities see our events page here

24

Aug2017

Last week reporter Sarah Pitt from the Tavistock Times spoke to some of our carers and our Team Manager Caroline Dungate.
Below is an excerpt, for the full article download the pdf here Tavistock Times
With the number of youngsters being taken in to care on the increase, thought, there is ... Read More

08

Aug2017

The Wessex team had a fun day at the 2017 Honiton Show last week. There was lots of mud but thankfully the day remained dry and the team got to meet lots of people and discuss the challenges and rewards of fostering.
Thank you to everyone who dropped by to say hello.

07

Aug2017

The Wessex and Tavistock Extreme Teams joined forces to have a wet and wild day at Woodland’s Theme Park.
It was a great opportunity for old friends to reunite and it did not take long for the group to reconnect and enjoy the fun the park had to offer. We also ... Read More

07

Aug2017

On Saturday 8th July the Bristol team hosted the Summer Fete for the region.
carers and young people had a great time and there was plenty of cake, bbq food and activities for everyone to enjoy.
... Read More

25

Jul2017

The Bristol Kidz group met up yesterday (24th July) at Avon Valley Country Park in Keynsham.
The weather stayed sunny so we enjoyed the pig racing, met lots of animals, drove go-karts, and explored the soft-play area too. All finished off with a well-deserved ice cream!... Read More

13

Jul2017

A huge warm welcome to our new team members at Wessex!
Liz - Supervising Social Worker
After completing my undergraduate degree in 2012, I decided I wanted to go on to train as a Social Worker. I spent some time gaining some more experience and had the opportunity to work with young adults ... Read More

20

Jun2017

A huge warm welcome to our new Supervising Social Worker Christine who is working out of our South West office in Tavistock.
Christine qualified as a social worker in 2008 and has worked with children and families in varying capacities since that time.
She is looking forward to meeting all of our South ... Read More

19

Jun2017

Plymouth was a sea of pink yesterday as almost two thousand ladies took part in the Race for Life, including staff, foster carers and children from our South West office.
Despite soaring temperatures, those taking part still put their trainers on to walk, jog and run 5k in the name of ... Read More

19

Jun2017

A huge thank you to our carers for attending the "Supporting young people who cope using self-injury" training run by the fantastic Dr Emma Greatbatch.
The feedback from the course was "excellent" and our carers found it "valuable" and really appreciated the practical strategies given.

09

Jun2017

On Tuesday our carers met at the Wessex office for their monthly support group.
Despite the wet and gloomy weather there was lots of laughter coming from the meeting room as the carers chatted and shared their experiences of fostering.
Topics of discussion included
the pressures on teenagers, such as exams, social media, ... Read More

05

Jun2017

Our South West Kidz group met on 30th May 2017.
The day started at The climbing Academy which all the children, aged 6-9 years old, took part in which was fantastic.
There was some very impressive climbing skills on show from the children and staff.
The climbing was followed ... Read More

02

Jun2017

Staff from the South West office were at Costa Coffee in Tavistock today chatting with local people about fostering.
Come along and meet the staff our next session will be on 7th July – hope to see you there!

02

Jun2017

Last week Sue Fairgrieve ran a very useful and interesting course in Exeter introducing our carers to the THRIVE model.
Thank you to all our carers who were able to attend and gave Sue such great feedback.

02

Jun2017

Another successful Young People’s Panel was held on 30th May 2017 at our Tavistock office. Amazing feedback from the young people who attended the day. They thoroughly enjoyed participating. The applicants fed back they enjoyed playing board games with the young people and they found their interviews challenging but insightful.
Well ... Read More

31

May2017

The British Red Cross had created a Baby and Child First Aid app.
If your child chokes on a sweet or suffers a nasty cut, you'll only be a few clicks away from knowing exactly what to do.
This free app is packed with useful videos, animations and tips. It provides simple and ... Read More

19

May2017

A quick reminder that new rules came into force on 1st March.
Make sure you are up to date with the new legislation.
Under new regulations, manufacturers aren’t allowed to introduce new models of backless booster seats for children shorter than 125cm or weighing less than 22kg.
This is because a backless car ... Read More

18

May2017

County lines is the term used by police and partners for urban gangs supplying drugs to suburban and rural areas, market and coastal towns using dedicated mobile phone lines. Gangs use children and young people to move drugs and money to and from the urban area. It is a major ... Read More

17

May2017

Thank you to Julie, David and Tracy who have just completed our 3 day Skills to Foster course for prospective carers.
They were happy to show their support for Foster Care Fortnight.
#FCF17 #proudtosupportfostering

16

May2017

Last Friday the carers and young people from the Wessex region met after school for a Foster Bake to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight.
There were lots of cakes to choose from and lots of wonderful decorating of cupcakes.
Thank you to everyone who turned up on the drizzly Friday afternoon, we had ... Read More

11

May2017

Yesterday the Bristol team held their Foster Bake event to celebrate and raise awareness of Foster Care Fortnight.
The team had a stall at Trowbridge Park from 10am - 2pm and gave away a free slice of cake with information ... Read More

11

May2017

The Wessex carers attended their support group meeting yesterday and had a good discussion on many topics including.
digital wellbeing
how to manage a teenager addicted to their smart phone
risks and rewards of using the internet and peer pressure
digital wellbeing training later in the year for carers
training for young people
teenagers and exams
encouraging ... Read More

09

May2017

Meet Fantastic Fred and Fabulous Florence!
They like to go on adventures with our young people and have recently been to America and Mexico.
During Foster Care Fortnight Fred and Florence are proud to show that they support fostering.
#FCF17 #proudtosupportfostering

08

May2017

Our South West office in Tavistock has a new window display to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight.
If you are passing have a look and pop in to day hi to the team.
#proudtosupportfostering
#FCF17
... Read More

05

May2017

The Fostering Foundation are getting ready to help celebrate Foster Care Fortnight next week.
Foster Care Fortnight™ is The Fostering Network's annual campaign to raise the profile of fostering and to show how foster care transforms lives. It is also ... Read More

05

May2017

The public editions of the latest children and young people's magazines are now available to download online on our new Resources page.
https://fosteringfoundation.co.uk/2017/05/useful-resources/
Names ... Read More

03

May2017

A group of carers really enjoyed the recent training looking at sex and healthy relationships.
This was delivered by Brook who are known nationally for the work they do supporting young people with their sexual health.
The overall message that came across was the importance of good communication with young people, without ... Read More

02

May2017

The latest editions of our young people's magazines, Kidzone and FFM, started going out in the post on Friday so they will be with you soon!
Hope you enjoy them and don't forget to send us any articles, photos or pictures for the next editions.

27

Apr2017

A huge warm welcome to our two new sets of carers who went to our independent panel on 12th April and have been approved by our Agency Decision Maker.
The successful candidates were Sukjit Bhangu & Ajit Singh from the London area,... Read More

10

Apr2017

The carers and young people from our Wessex area had a wonderful day on Friday searching for Easter eggs in the glorious spring sunshine.
There were lots of other activities going in as well such as the climbing frame, tyre ... Read More

07

Apr2017

Thursday 6th April 2017
The Wolf Pack took part in an Easter themed Junior Chef Master class.
They prepared and made a select of yummy delights including a beautifully creative fruit bouquet, chocolate Easter nests, crudités and dips. They ... Read More

06

Apr2017

The sky had no limits for our adventurous Teddy Bears at the Barn Climbing Centre.
The bravest of Teddy Bears scaled the climbing wall with fearless confidence, speed and agility which left their carers in awe.
After a shared picnic lunch refuel, the Teddy Bears faced the boulder challenge without the reassurance ... Read More

05

Apr2017

Although, it was only a small support group meeting, the Heist team had a thrilling time and packed a lot of punch.
The games were set over a number of different hilly terrains and objectives.
Laser gun’s Lumpy, Eagle and Shriek were the fine sharp shooters on the day, their deadly accuracy having ... Read More

31

Mar2017

Carers from the Wessex region recently attended a two-part training course on Managing Behaviours run by Helen Turner at Stair Consultancy.
The course received great praise form the carers and everyone found it useful and informative.
The course consisted of:
Day 1
Positive Intervention/Holding
Break-a-way and disengagement techniques
Day 2 Conflict Management Content:
Policy, guidance, law
Learn the skills ... Read More

31

Mar2017

Members of the South West Team were in the Tavistock branch of Costa coffee this morning.
A big thank you to everyone who dropped in to say "hello" and learn more about fostering.
They will be back at Costa in Tavistock on Friday 28th April 10am-2pm so please come along.... Read More

30

Mar2017

Last week the male carers from the Wessex area met for one of their regular support group meetings at the Community Room at Middlemoor Fire Station.
The subjects for discussion included:
the value and quality of the male carers group, and what it means to them personally.
the needs of refugees entering the fostering ... Read More

29

Mar2017

This training course was held on 13th March 2017 at Tavistock Town Hall, Devon.
This is what Debbie Girdler one of our carers who attended had to day about the course:
The course is run by ECPAT UK.
They are the ... Read More

27

Mar2017

Ian Johnson from Simply Fostering Consultancy delivered the mandatory training on child protection and safeguarding to carers both new and experienced at St. Austell Business Park. Ian’s relaxed and informal training style allowed the carers to explore and debate current themes and developments in safeguarding and child protection.
Much of the ... Read More

27

Mar2017

Members of both the Wessex and the South West offices will be available in a nearby Costa Coffee this week.
The Wessex team will be at Costa Coffee, Fore Street, Taunton on Thursday 30th March 8.30am-1pm... Read More

14

Mar2017

One of our young people has written a heartfelt plea to Plymouth City Council to keep his local library open.
He and his carer have spoken to the Plymouth Herald about the importance of the library and how he learned and developed his skills so much since attending the library every ... Read More

13

Mar2017

Friday 3rd March saw the first of the new regular sessions at Costa Coffee Tavistock where members of the Fostering Foundation team are on hand 10-2pm to welcome all interests and answer any questions. Thank you to everyone who came in to say hello and talk to our team members.
Please ... Read More

22

Feb2017

Food Safety and Healthy Eating
The Extreme Team enjoyed a day of learning really useful skills for life. Food preparation, knife skills, staying safe in the kitchen and how to eat well and keep healthy. They chopped carrot and celery sticks, made their own dips, fruit kebabs and they prepared and ... Read More

22

Feb2017

Wednesday 15th February 2017 – South West Young People’s Panel
The Fostering Foundation South West continues to promote that our young people’s views are represented as fully as possible.
Once again our young people demonstrated their creative skills during the panel activity in building a tower, and their intelligence and compassion through ... Read More

21

Feb2017

The Fostering Foundation South West kicked off the February blues with their annual party event held at Trethorne Golf and Leisure Club. The children, young people, carers and staff alike we all entertained by the talented and oh so funny Mr Wishy Washy. The children were stunned into silence as ... Read More

20

Feb2017

The Wessex Rebels support group visited the Big Sheep near Bideford last week.
It was a highly charged and energetic day as all the children were very excited.
The Ewetopia Indoor play area was a big hit, especially with the inclement weather during the morning. Some of the smaller children managed the ... Read More

16

Feb2017

Our Young Peoples’s Panel met some prospective carers being assessed by the Wessex team on Tuesday.
They all got to know each other by doing activities such as creating a self-propelled vehicle.
The results were fantastic as I’m sure you will agree. Thank you to everyone who took part.... Read More

02

Feb2017

Tuesday 7th February is Safer Internet Day!
The theme is ‘Be the change: unite for a better internet’.
There are lots of resources available for children, young people, carers, parents and professionals on how to use the internet whilst staying safe online.
On the Thinkuknow website there are games available for young people ... Read More

26

Jan2017

Have you ever thought about becoming a Foster Carer?
Would you like to make a real difference in a young persons life?
If you would like to find out more please come and see us for a coffee and a chat in our office at 5 West Street, Tavistock, PL19 8AD.... Read More

26

Jan2017

We held a very successful Drugs and Alcohol Awareness Training session here in our Tavistock Office today. The feedback received from those who attended the training was extremely positive.
'Really useful and interesting, knowledge we can use now and in the future'
Thank you to Graham for delivering such invaluable training.... Read More

19

Jan2017

We held our Christmas lunch celebration with Foster Carers from The Fostering Foundation South West to say thank you for all their dedicated and amazing care to children and young people throughout 2016.
The Whitsand Bay Hotel was a lovely venue, great food and complany and we look forward to working ... Read More

21

Dec2016

We have set-up our new 2017 training program dedicated to our foster carers. They will meet on 21st April, 16th June, 15th September and 3rd November and work together on the following topics: Child Protection & Safeguarding, Understanding Attachment, Understanding Child Sexual Exploitation, Allegations and Safer Caring Awareness.

15

Dec2016

The London Region end of year party for Foster Carers and children was held at Nandos in Ealing this year. Gifts were given out to carers and children by the Chairman Geoff Lewis who thanked the carers for their hard work and ... Read More

06

Dec2016

The Fostering Foundation Bristol have started preparing for Christmas.
Bristol carers had their annual Christmas get together. Thank you to all those who attended.
The Bristol Office are looking ... Read More

23

Nov2016

Last week the male carers from the Wessex region met for one of their regular support group meetings at the Community Room at Middlemoor Fire Station.
The subjects for discussion included:
Moderns tattoos and piercing: tribal origins of marking the rights of passage from childhood to manhood; Body expression, art forms and changing ... Read More

10

Nov2016

Our foster carers Tim and Helen recently supported both their birth daughters and other children to attend a swimming competition in Fuerteventura – The Fostering Foundation are very proud to have been part of the sponsorship to enable the girls this fantastic opportunity.
Helen provided us with the following overview;
As you ... Read More

10

Nov2016

Last week I facilitated a great discussion on smacking which reminded me of how much confusion exists on this subject.
Currently the law in England and Wales stipulates that it is not illegal for a parent (or any person the ... Read More

09

Nov2016

Our Young Peoples's Panel met some prospective carers being assessed by the Wessex team on Saturday.
They all got to know each other by doing activities such as creating art work relating to Guy Fawkes as it was Bonfire Night.
The results were fantastic as I'm sure you will agree. Thank you ... Read More

02

Nov2016

The Wessex region carers attended a course today on Relationship Based Play run by Rebecca Lakeland and Shirley Martin.
Relationship Based Play is a child and family therapy for building and enhancing attachment, self-esteem, trust in others, and joyful engagement.
It is based on the natural patterns of playful, healthy interaction between parent/carer ... Read More

01

Nov2016

All the Wessex children support groups meet together for one fun filled day at Crealy, Devon.
They all met and quickly formed into mini groups of similar age and interests. There was a creepy Halloween theme in the park this year, with some freaky and strange beings seen around the park ... Read More

27

Oct2016

The Fostering Foundation South West would like to welcome Stan and Jane, Tracy and Keith and Jo and Gordon as recently approved Foster Carers with the Tavistock Office.
We are very excited to be working together.... Read More

27

Oct2016

We held our Recruitment stand in the Tavistock Pannier Market on Thursday 20 October and thoroughly enjoyed meeting local people and being able to answer enquiries about becoming Foster Carers.
It was really useful to make people aware that we are located in the town and that our door is always open ... Read More

24

Oct2016

October is the month that we acknowledge the vital contribution made by sons and daughters of foster carers.
We would like to say a big thank you to all you sons and daughters, we appreciate all you do.

20

Oct2016

Thank you to all the carers who attended yesterday's PACE training course at the Wessex office.
The course was run by Dr Emma Greatbatch who explained to the carers the principles of PACE and how to implement the principles of it in their relationship with their young people.
Thank you to Emma ... Read More

13

Oct2016

OCTOBER IS SONS AND DAUGHTERS MONTH
Here in the Tavistock Office we are celebrating Sons and Daughters Month with The Fostering Network by recognising the vital contribution the children of our Foster Carers make to successful foster care.
We would like to thank our young people for the important role they ... Read More

07

Oct2016

Wessex Carers and team members enjoyed a very fruitful discussion and shared lunch with members of the Global Development Centre in Exeter, which support members of minority ethnic groups in Devon.
It was a chance to learn about each other’s communities and discuss best practice for supporting children of minority ethnic ... Read More

06

Oct2016

Well done to Jim Willis who completed the 399th marathon out of 401 alongside Ben Smith on Monday 3rd October. Ben himself completed his final marathon yesterday.
If you would like to support Ben in raising £250,000 to support anti bullying ... Read More

29

Sep2016

Bristol held their first Macmillan Coffee Morning at their office in Kingswood. There were some impressive cakes and biscuits on offer, all homemade of course.
Everything was laid out perfectly and then it got silly... Read More

29

Sep2016

Bristol Women's Support Group got glamorous this September. The group watched a show at The Mall Cribbs Causeway during Bristol Fashion Week.
The show was followed by a meal at a restaurant in the mall and the ... Read More

19

Sep2016

Jim Willis from the Bristol Office will be running a marathon with Ben Smith on 3rd October in Bristol. This will be marathon 399 of 401 for Ben in consecutive days. Ben is running 401 marathons in 401 days all round the UK to raise £250,000 to support anti bullying initiatives. In particular Ben ... Read More

13

Sep2016

Our Summer Event took place at Mount Kelly in Tavistock and despite the weather we had an amazing turnout!!
Fun was had by all and it was a real honour to share the day with our children and young people and foster carers.
A huge thank you to Donna Conway for all ... Read More

09

Sep2016

The Heist (Birth Children Support Group) converged at the Northmore Outdoor centre in mid Devon.
A mini support group meeting was held sharing the highs and lows of having parents who foster and the members shared their experiences of fostering.
Then the fun really started!
The Heist group quickly became adapt at making ... Read More

05

Sep2016

The adventurous Wessex Rebels met again at the Northmore Outdoor centre in mid Devon.
The members of the group participated in a mini support group meeting, before exploring the dense forest. They learnt how to make fires using the traditional methods of, witling wood, and flint and steel. They then learnt ... Read More

26

Aug2016

The Wessex team are delighted to welcome two new sets of carers who have just been approved following recommendations by our independent panel.
Jean Round & Alan Kane
and
Clare and Ian Westaway... Read More

18

Aug2016

The Wolf Pack Summer 2016 event was held at the recently relaunched Camels Creek Adventure Park (previously Cornwall Crealy).
Sixteen Wolf Pack members enjoyed a full day of spinning, climbing, splashing and whizzing.
The day was spent amongst other things, scaling and racing around in Dragon’s Kingdom soft play ... Read More

18

Aug2016

Our Young People’s Panel had a summer twist where we took our panel activity out in the sunshine in Meadowlands Park, Tavistock. The two teams were set the challenge of creating a watercraft with some basic materials along with elements from nature. Both teams set to work ... Read More

15

Aug2016

Carers Jacqui and David Naish, along with Debbie Welsford, said a fond farewell to June Ford, who has been the social worker for the young person in their care, for the last 11 years!! We shall all miss working with her and wish her all the best.... Read More

11

Aug2016

We are pleased to announce the successful approval of two sets of foster carers at our Independent Panel which was held on 3rd August 2016.
The successful candidates were Tim and Helen Cowling and, Steve and ... Read More

09

Aug2016

The Bristol branch could not decide which Armed Forces Event to attend Trowbridge or Kingswood Bristol. The result was that they attended both!
Debbie, Mandy and JimR manned the Trowbridge stall
while Heather & Estelle manned the Kingswood stall.... Read More

08

Aug2016

Last week Angela Ryeland and Lyn Gibbins successfully provided another informative and stimulating Skills to Foster course for prospective foster carers from across Devon. The three-day course took place at the Wessex Region office near Tiverton.
They were joined by ... Read More

04

Aug2016

Our Foster Carers have now completed the first two days of the Conscious Parenting Course which was delivered by Richard Reddington.
The feedback we have received has been excellent and everyone really enjoyed the course and are looking forward to the third and final day in November.
For more information ... Read More

29

Jul2016

Skirmish Paintball Exeter 28.07.16
The excited, motley crew arrived at Skirmish Paintball Exeter, and the weather initially tried to dampen their spiri ts ,but to no avail. Devon and Cornwall PCSO Ben Jones Aka (Silver Fox) delivered an excellent, informal talk to the Extreme Team about being safe, being internet ... Read More

29

Jul2016

A huge than you to all of our carers, staff and young people who attended our Summer Fun Day on Saturday 16th July.
We had so much fun with a bouncy castle, BBQ, ice cream bar, games and activities and we all said a very special and sad farewell to Mandy ... Read More

26

Jul2016

For the first year in a long time the sun shone on our Summer BBQ, the gazebo almost blew away, but the sun shone.
We had experienced chefs who had a way of instilling confidence in the quality of their food ... Read More

29

Jun2016

A huge thank you to all who attended and participated in our series of six teenage workshops.
The workshops, which were newly developed for 2016, were created to provide our carers with the support and resources to enable them to confidently ... Read More

09

Jun2016

We know we have fabulous carers but it is always lovely to be appreciated.
Some of our Foster Carers recently carried out a complex placement and in recognition of this they received the letter below.
All of our Foster Carers do a fantastic job and it is great to see this work being ... Read More

09

Jun2016

Celebrating Fostering Fortnight Duck Race
The Fostering Foundation South West held their first Duck Race on the canal in Meadowlands Park, Tavistock as planned on Friday 27 May 2016.
Despite weeks of monitoring the current and water levels, on the day of the Quacky Races the canal was perfectly still!
With eager faces ... Read More

09

Jun2016

A very valuable training session was held on Wednesday 8 June 2016 at The Fostering Foundation South West Office with a focus to develop Foster Carers knowledge and awareness of the current concerns of Drug misuse for children and young people.
The course aim ... Read More

07

Jun2016

Proper adventurers were called for at the Ultimate Adventure Centre near Bideford. Wit, guile and nerves of steel were needed for the day and the Extreme Team brought it in abundance under the glorious basking sun.
The Awesome 4- various members completed the Aerial High Rope course and Jacob’s Ladder pushing ... Read More

24

May2016

Earlier this month the Wessex region carers attended a Skills to Foster Refresher & Safer Caring training session.
The training covered the following areas
´What do foster carers do?
´ Making a difference
´ Working with other professionals
´ Report writing
´ Contact
´ Safer Caring
´ New legislation/ regulations
´ Training/Action plan
The feedback received for the training was either ... Read More

23

May2016

The Wessex Region Carers met for their latest Support Group last week.
There was a good turnout and a lively discussion as always, which included
Balance of fostering time and carers own time to replenish and recharge
Birth parent's inability to see beyond themselves and focus on their children during contact
Foster children making ... Read More

23

May2016

A big thank you to all those who were able to attend and make our picnic on Friday so much fun.
The picnic was organised to celebrate Foster Care Fortnight run by The Fostering Network. This year the 20 minute campaign highlights the statistic that every 20 minutes across the UK ... Read More

20

May2016

Members of the Wessex team kick started Foster Care Fortnight on Sunday with a stand at Junction 24 Boot Fair & Market.
Thank you to everyone who said hello and stopped for a chat, it was lovely to meet you all.
There was also a great collection of classic cars and trucks ... Read More

11

May2016

The Wessex Male Carers Group had their first meeting last month at Middlemoor Fire Station.
The carers discussed the new group and reaffirmed the support group ethos to provide the male carers the opportunity to share the challenges of fostering and confidential experiences in a safe environment.
The group had a great discussion ... Read More

11

May2016

Foster Care Fortnight 2016 will take place from Monday 16 to Sunday 29 May 2016. The theme will be Time to Foster, Time to Care.
What is Foster Care Fortnight?
Foster Care Fortnight™ is the UK’s biggest foster care awareness raising campaign, delivered by leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network. Established for almost 20 ... Read More

09

May2016

Jim Willis from the Bristol office completed an ultra marathon which turned out to be a 45 mile run from Bristol to Stroud on 2nd May.
Jim was raising funds for the Who Cares? Trust and raised almost £500.... Read More

03

May2016

The Wessex team had a great day at The Devon Business Expo on 28th April.
Devon Expo is probably the largest business exhibition in South West and we met lots of lovely people who wanted to talk to us about fostering and our agency.... Read More

20

Apr2016

This was our first SQUAD South West Sons' and Daughters’ event of 2016. Back by popular demand, we returned to Tree Surfers for yet another high ropes adventure activity. The SQUAD team had the opportunity to perfect their rope skills where they mastered ... Read More

20

Apr2016

Why not join our fostering panel?
The Fostering Foundation in London is seeking to recruit new people to join our fostering panel.
The fostering panel meets new candidates who want to foster and makes recommendations about their suitability to become foster carers. We would like to hear from people who are or ... Read More

14

Apr2016

This event was the first of it's kind and had been in the planning for some time. The carers were all invited to a Spa Day at the Retallack Resort and Spa near Padstow. The day was previously cancelled due to extreme weather ... Read More

04

Apr2016

The Squad team met up at YMCA Taunton and started with introductions and greetings from new and old members. This was followed by the Participation workshop and soon the team were in agreement and voted to have a new group name to reflect the new Wessex region changes. After much ... Read More

30

Mar2016

I’m really very relieved, as well as excited to have completed and successfully passed my NVQ Level 5 – Leadership and Management Diploma. This has been an interesting journey where I have learnt the importance of developing a number of positive leadership ... Read More

22

Mar2016

On the 18th March one of the Wessex young people and a member of staff attended an Open Day at University of Exeter
A number of Looked after Children (Young People) from different schools from around the South West were invited to attend.
Having split into groups, they were given a guided tour around ... Read More

17

Mar2016

Friday 18th March 2016, is Child Sexual Exploitation Day. The day aimed to raise awareness surrounding Child Sexual Exploitation, encouraging people to think, spot and speak out against abuse and adopt a zero tolerance to adults developing inappropriate relationships with children. Recently ... Read More

04

Mar2016

As part of the ongoing training program some of the Wessex carers attended a training course run by Dialogue
This is part of the mandatory training required by The Fostering Foundation and covered:
Child Protection (Safeguarding for foster carers – level 2)
What is child abuse and neglect?
Signs and indicators of abuse and ... Read More

02

Mar2016

Thank you to everyone who attended our open day today.
The day was a success with great discussions between our current carers and those interested in joining us.
All also helped by Lyn and Shirley's cakes!
If you couldn't join us today you can pop into any of our offices for a chat at ... Read More

29

Feb2016

As part of the ongoing training program some of the Wessex carers attended a training course run by Dialogue
This course focused on the experience of foster carers living with children who may be at risk of child sexual exploitation ... Read More

23

Feb2016

Wolf Pack South West first aid and climbing event.
The Wolf Pack were the first group to kick start the 2016 children and young people’s events in the South West Region.
The day began with a first aid workshop which was run by ... Read More

17

Feb2016

With an air of gathering excitement we all arrived at Crealy adventure Park. The Wolf Pack group completed a Participation mini workshop designed to choose a new group name in line with the new Wessex office. There was a number of original names put forwards with the final result being ... Read More

05

Feb2016

The first of this year’s Cornwall Carers Support Groups took place on 2nd February at its usual venue – Bodmin Jail.
Bodmin Jail, which is a popular visitor attraction in central Cornwall, was selected as a suitable yet affordable location about three years ago ... Read More

04

Feb2016

It was great to see some of our wonderful carers at the Plymouth Support Group on the 27th January which met at the Fostering Foundation’s office in Tavistock. The support groups are held for 3 hours every 3 months and are an opportunity for carers to share their experiences of fostering, ... Read More

23

Jan2016

Caroline Dungate
Deputy Regional Director
The Fostering Foundation South West
I’m excited to say that I’m starting 2016 in my new role as the South West Deputy Regional Director. I joined the Fostering Foundation nearly 3 years ago and developed as a Senior Supervising ... Read More

15

Jan2016

Come and find out more by chatting to one of our friendly team on Thursday 21st January 2016 5pm – 8 pm at The Fostering Foundation 74a Regent Street, Kingswood, Bristol. A warm welcome, coffee and cakes await you.

22

Dec2015

The family Christmas Party was full of fun. There was dancing amongst the bubbles and a spectacular limbo competition (thanks to Stuart the DJ). At one point children, carers and staff could be seen doing the Macarena.
The dancing stopped for a ... Read More

07

Dec2015

Olympia, London, hosted a Business Show on the 3rd and 4th December 2015 (http://www.greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk/)
This was coordinated by "The Prism Group who have been organising leading B2B trade exhibitions for twelve years, with a strong track record of producing well run, well attended ... Read More

03

Dec2015

Bristol held its first ever Autumn Party. There were tables with different activities to entertain all, followed by pizza and cookies. To finish off there was pass the parcel and the grand lighting of the pumpkins. Below is a brief picture story of the event.
Face Painting by the friendly Fostering ... Read More

02

Dec2015

Picture of Debbie Welsford with her award by Caroline Field
Outstanding Contribution by a Social Worker Award winner, Debbie Welsford. Debbie said it was a fabulous evening. One of the many memorable moments was when she was introduced to and had ... Read More

30

Oct2015

Our young people enjoyed their first Extreme Team South West event this week, visiting the Zone young people’s drop in centre, followed by an afternoon of zooming on Segways around the skills centre at Mount Edgcumbe Park.
The morning workshop included an ... Read More

29

Oct2015

Biri Yaya, the Regional Director for North London attended the Enfield Expo today. The aim of the day was to encourage informal networking, meet prospective interested parties and assist in becoming part of ... Read More

28

Oct2015

As part of our celebrations for Sons and Daughters month this year, our South West team took some of the birth children from our current foster carers to visit the studios of Radio Plymouth. While at the studios, the young people ... Read More

27

Oct2015

Well today was the first Wolf Pack South West Event where 8 of of young people spent a informative and exhilarating day at Tamar Trails.
The day commenced with a workshop on firework and fire safety delivered by fireman Ron ... Read More

20

Oct2015

Angela Ryeland and Lyn Gibbins successfully provided informative and stimulating Skills to Foster course, at the Cullompton Community Centre, for prospective foster carers, from across Devon. They were joined by an experienced foster carer with the Fostering Foundation, on the second ... Read More

13

Oct2015

Male carers support group - 8 October 2015
Our most recent male carers support group was held at Finlake holiday park. Nigel Daly a psychologist also attended the group and a variety of issues were discussed inclusive of individual case discussions.... Read More

11

Sep2015

Carers, team members and friends of the Foundation gathered in the Bristol office on Thursday to celebrate the changes taking place in the Foundation. Nina Shah is leaving the Bristol team to become part time as our Director of Social Care. ... Read More

27

Aug2015

An early morning start for the South West Team to set up the stand on what should have been a glorious August day - however...
The heavens opened and as we quickly recalled our girl guide skills we managed to get ... Read More

24

Aug2015

The weather was true to form for a British Summer at the beach. Rain, rain and yet more rain followed by black and grey clouds and a spot of more rain. However this did not trouble our Extreme ... Read More

14

Aug2015

The South West team facilitated a Young People’s Panel Training day on the 12th August 2015. The interest from young people to be involved continues to be both an inspiration and a privilege. Our young people’s panel training day aims to work with ... Read More

14

Aug2015

Lots of our young people have taken part in summer holiday activities such as:
Drama summer school
National citizenship award
Summer sport and football
Army cadet camps
Holidays in Britain and abroad
Shaun in the city trail
What brilliant ways to spend the summer!
If you missed the Shaun in the city trail then why not visit The ... Read More

11

Aug2015

The Teddy Bears made the most of the British summertime by spending a day in Bude where we visited Crooklets and Summerleaze Beaches. The day started with a beach and sea safety workshop held by Bude Nippers which is run by Bude Surf Life Saving Club. The Teddy Bears learnt ... Read More

10

Aug2015

On Friday, the South West region enjoyed a fun day out at Woodlands leisure park and the sun shone for us all. There were a few wet people after riding the log flumes – except for those who had inside knowledge and knew to sit at the back. A few pale faces ... Read More

05

Aug2015

Well firstly what a fantastic turnout Wolf Pack! There were 17 Wolf Pack members who came along from far and wide to learn about keeping safe at the Beach and enjoy the delights of Bude both in and out of the water!
The day commenced with a beach and sea safety ... Read More

25

Jul2015

EVER THOUGHT ABOUT FOSTERING?
The Fostering Foundation will be present at the Mid Devon Show this Saturday and it looks to be a gloriously sunny day. Team members Lyn and Nick will be on hand to share and discuss with anyone interested to know more about fostering. Please come and visit ... Read More

17

Jul2015

A thoroughly informative training course about self-harm was held on 15th July at Bodmin Jail. There were 16 attendees, mostly foster carers and some staff. The trainer was Ian from Simply Fostering who gave an engaging, thought-provoking presentation and facilitated ... Read More

09

Jul2015

Today (Thurs 9th July) the south west team ran a training even in Tavistock for existing carers, led by a company called Triangle Training. This is what we term as mandatory training and proves to be extremely useful in teaching foster carers how to deal with major and minor accidents with ... Read More

03

Jul2015

This course was both inspirational and empowering. The presentation was easy to follow, interactive and enjoyable. If you would like to know more about the content please click here for a synopsis
Feedback
What a brilliant course! Interesting, relevant and well presented.
This was an amazing course, wow, feel so empowered.

03

Jul2015

After many years of wet family fun days the sun shone for us this year. The food was up to its usual 5 star quality, cooked by only the finest chefs. We all enjoyed the surf simulator, boules, football and the bouncy castle.
Look out ... Read More

30

Jun2015

We would like to welcome Kirsten Collins-Paull to The Fostering Foundation.
Kirsten has taken up her role as Office Manager at our new, soon to be opening, office in Tiverton.
If you live in the Somerset area and are thinking about becoming a foster carer, please ... Read More

29

Jun2015

Young People's Panel
Have Your Say
The Fostering Foundation South West continues to promote that our young people’s views are represented as fully as possible. The ‘Young Peoples Panel’ is an exciting development which was successfully established by the Fostering Foundation in 2014 where the young people of ... Read More

26

Jun2015

On Saturday 27th June 2015 The Fostering Foundation will be running a stall at the Armed Forces Day in Trowbridge park. We are always looking for foster carers, so if you are interested in fostering but need more information pop by the stall or ring 0117 9673744. For any existing carers, come ... Read More

12

Jun2015

How about supporting one of our carers who will be singing a number in the following production.
Sue M has been a member of Timsbury Theatre Group for some time now and regularly has a part in the pantomime.
This sounds like a good old fashioned fun night out.... Read More

12

Jun2015

We are all looking forward to welcoming carers, children and families to our summer BBQ tomorrow 13th June 2015.
The fun begins at 12.30 and ends at 4 pm in Wellow Village Hall BA2 8QA.
Below is a little reminder of last year to whet your appetite.... Read More

02

Jun2015

Every year at the beginning of June The Fostering Network run a national awareness campaign for foster care. This year's campaign theme is "make a connection" and along with other agencies we will be joining in with the activities.
There are lots of things going on, from the social media #FCF2015 ... Read More

08

May2015

Jim Rudge is taking part in the Bristol 10k this Sunday. Look out for him if you are supporting this event (he will be the one in a Fostering Foundation T-Shirt).
The Trowbridge support group on 19th May had a theme of transitions for young people.
The Women's group was held on ... Read More

07

May2015

01

May2015

The Fostering Foundation have a stall at the North Somerset Show on bank holiday Monday 4th May.
Why not come on down and find out more about fostering and see all the show has to offer. Two of our team will be on hand to answer your questions about fostering.... Read More

23

Apr2015

Jim Willis completed the Bath Beat Marathon on Saturday 11 April, orienteering through the countryside and to woods, hills and river valleys using a variety of terrain including public footpaths, a disused canal and farmland (Described by the magazine ... Read More

22

Apr2015

The weather was sunny and warm as a coach load of foster parents, children and young people from The Fostering Foundation Bristol headed down to Paulton’s Park on 9th April. There was something of interest for everyone. The young enjoyed Peppa pig world, the miniature train and tractor rides, older ... Read More

22

Apr2015

The twice-yearly ‘Male Carers Support Group’ took place on Wednesday 15th April 2015 at Plymouth. It was attended by a range of male carers from Somerset, Devon and Cornwall and supported by Ian Robbins (SSW), Nick Harrop (Specialist Support Worker), and Nigel Daly (Clinical Psychologist). Discussions took place spanning a ... Read More

20

Apr2015

Family court gives guardianship of black child to white foster carer..
Child’s French-speaking family wanted him to live with his great-aunt – but judge decides in favour of woman who has helped him thrive.
http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/apr/05/family-court-gives-guardianship-of-black-child-to-white-foster-carer

09

Apr2015

A student-led action sponsored by Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network’s (GLSEN) in which thousands of students around the country will remain silent for all or part of the school day to call attention to the harassment and ... Read More

30

Mar2015

Clare Grogan:
I drew on my pop star past to write a book for my daughter..
Clare and her husband, Steve, adopted Elle as an eight-month-old baby after 10 years of trying to have a child ended in ... Read More

30

Mar2015

If you have been thinking about fostering but would like more information without committing to anything, then come along to our office at 74a Regent Street, Kingswood, Bristol on Thursday 21st May 2015 between 6.30pm and 8pm.
Find out more about what is involved in becoming a foster carer such as training, 24 hour support and the children we look after.
We ... Read More

27

Mar2015

Come and see us at this years festival...
12 noon to 7pm on Saturday 06 June and from 11am to 6 pm on Sunday 07 June 2015
About Exeter Respect
Exeter Respect is the city's annual celebration of ... Read More

20

Mar2015

We are in the process of securing the lease for a new office, located just off J27 on the M5, so hopefully making us easily accessible for all our foster carers in the Devon and Somerset areas.
The new region will be called TFF Wessex, and will be staffed by a team of ... Read More

22

Jan2015

The Fostering Foundation is undergoing exciting changes during 2015, and would like to welcome the first of our new recruits to facilitate these - Angela Ryeland is taking over the role of Deputy Regional Director in the South west and will be setting up a Somerset region later in the ... Read More

13

Jan2015

Young People’s Panel:
The Fostering Foundation South West understands the fact that young people’s views are not represented as fully as we would have wanted.
The ‘Young Peoples Panel’ is a new and exciting development set up by the Fostering Foundation for 2014. The purpose of the Young Peoples ... Read More

02

Jul2014

Below is the latest fostering news from fostering.net.
Foster carer values and motivations survey launched
We’ve launched our new national foster carer survey to identify the values and motivations of newly approved foster carers. Please encourage your foster carers who have been fostering for less than one year to... Read More

28

May2014

We are looking forward to running our first fun training session for 7 – 11 year olds with a theme of bullying on Saturday 7th June.
Don’t forget our Family Fun Day on 28th June in Wellow Village Hall. There will be a bouncy castle and you can all ... Read More